Twenty-five years of research in endometriosis

Abstract

Research rarely progresses in a straight line. It is more like an unpredictable front, marked by bursts of brilliance that fade after a few years, sudden breakthroughs, periods of stagnation, rediscoveries of forgotten ideas and occasional setbacks. Endometriosis research is no exception to these dynamics. In this opinion piece, three Generation X researchers who have been dedicated to endometriosis since the early days of their careers reflect on the field's progress over the past 25 years. Their verdict? Not disappointing. In fact, some pivotal strides have been made. The understanding of endometriosis has undergone a dramatic transformation. Hormonal therapies and assisted reproductive technology have emerged as first-line treatments, dethroning the once-central role of surgery. Non-invasive diagnosis of the disease has spread. This shift marks a notable evolution in how the disease is managed. However, high-throughput technologies have failed to deliver transformative insights, and the root causes of the disease remain as elusive as ever. Despite the setbacks, the progress made offers hope and direction.